Website Content and Editorial Policies

Blog Editorial Policies

Purpose
The Indivisible Upstate SC blog exists to elevate South Carolina voices, provide trustworthy information and analysis regarding key political issues, and help empathy-driven citizens mobilize and thrive. We foster dialogue and civic engagement by offering a platform for inclusive, civic-minded, and locally grounded perspectives.

Anonymity
IUSC acknowledges that, despite First Amendment protections provided in the US Constitution, individuals in politically conservative regions may face personal or professional risks for expressing dissenting views. Therefore:

• Writers who wish to remain anonymous are encouraged to adopt a consistent pen name to maintain continuity and credibility over time.
• Personal identifiers may be removed or altered in consultation with the editorial team.
• Individuals or groups who are the subjects of reporting, profiles, or interviews will be offered the opportunity to remain anonymous. Journalistic transparency will not overrule risk of potential harm to individuals.

General

• Articles, even those attributed to “IUSC Staff,” do not necessarily represent the stances and beliefs of IUSC as an organization.
• Editorial decisions prioritize truth and context over balance when covering issues rooted in inequality, disinformation, or systemic power.
• No paid content, advertising, or political endorsements are accepted.
• While we value open discussion, blog commenting is disabled to maintain a safe, respectful space for contributors and readers. We encourage thoughtful engagement via letters to the editor, social media channels, and our website contact form. We also welcome interaction and feedback during our monthly in-person and virtual member meetings.

Submission Guidelines for Content Creators

• The first time you reach out, please use our contact form and check “blog” as your topic. 
• Submissions are welcome from South Carolina voices whose work aligns with the purpose of our blog purpose as stated above. Drafts should be Word docs or links to Google docs, with your name or pen name clearly indicated.
• While we cannot publish every submission, we will respond in a timely manner to all authors.
• Readers are welcome to submit letters or responses for publication if they wish to offer a rebuttal or perspective not represented in a post.
• If your piece is time-sensitive, please indicate that in ALL CAPS at the top of your email.
• In general, articles should range from 500 to 1,400 words. Exceptions can be made for in-depth reporting or interviews. Pieces may include personal essays, investigative reports, commentary, cultural analysis, photo essays, or Q&As.
• All contributors should…
  • disclose any conflicts of interest related to the subject of the piece; and
  • fact-check their submissions and cite reputable sources (hyperlinks encouraged).

Editorial Review and Revisions

• All content is subject to editorial review. IUSC reserves the right to decline or request changes to any submission.
• Substantive changes (e.g., reframing arguments, cutting significant sections, or adding context) will be discussed with the contributor before publication.
• Minor edits may be made for clarity, style, tone, grammar, or formatting without author approval. We take care to not distort the intent of contributors.
• Content found to include disinformation will be rejected or retracted, and repeat violations will result in loss of publishing privileges. Disinformation refers to deliberately false or misleading information spread with the intent to deceive or manipulate public perception.